Urban Art

The word urban is famous today. As if it is represent the future in every aspect, urban culture, urban design, and, what we found for you, urban art. Written by Teguh Wicaksono from The Jakarta Post Travel, here's places where you can enjoy urban in the form of art. 

It's unique. It's urban. (Courtesy: The Jakarta Post Travel)

Ruang Rupa

A feature since 2000, Ruang Rupa has succeeded in keeping its title as a den for young artists and urbanites.

Indra Ameng, who is responsible for Ruang Rupa’s programs, said that the main reason behind its establishment was that previously, there was no place for young artists to gather and express their work.

Ruang Rupa was born out of the collective initiative of various artists longing to fulfill a need to express themselves.

You might have already been familiar with the collective thanks to its international programs such as Jakarta OK VIDEO, Rrrecfest and Jakarta 32 Celcius. The place is also a welcoming haven for artists abroad who visit Indonesia on residencies or exhibitions. Many artists such as filmmaker Vincent Moon and musician Arrington de Dionyoso have also made Ruang Rupa their home during visits to Jakarta.

Ruang Rupa – Jl. Tebet Timur Dalam Raya 6, Jakarta Selatan, telephone - 021.830.4220, info@ruangrupa.org, ruangrupa.org, Twitter - @ruangrupa.

Dia.lo.gue

Unique gift shop in front of dia.lo.gue gallery (Courtesy: The Jakarta Post Travel)

The thundering blaze of Hammond organ notes coupled with staccato drum strokes echoed in the main hall of the Dia.lo.gue art space as I entered the quirky building. The instrumental duo - Mission Possible - was performing as a guest in "Color of The Trap" - an art exhibition held by local artist Sir Dandy.

The atmosphere in the exhibition came hand in hand with the music; psychedelic with a nudge of the contemporary. Among many familiar faces, I found Sir Dandy and asked him to describe the importance of art spaces in the industry.

“It's essential. Basically this kind of place [dia.lo.gue] is important for the industry. Artists and art enthusiasts converge in this place,” he said.

My favorite spot in the place is definitely the gift shop, located in the front of the venue. Buying locally-crafted accessories is the easiest way of giving support to the scene.

Dia.lo.gue Artspace – Jl. Kemang Selatan Raya 99A, South Jakarta, telephone - 021.719 9671, email - info@dialogue-artspace.com, web - facebook.com/dialogueartspace.